In a world where sports often transcend mere competition, the story of Mel Jones, Dr Catherine Ordway, and Emma Staples stands as a testament to the extraordinary impact cricket can have on lives. These remarkable women have been honoured with the prestigious MCC Spirit of Cricket Award for their courageous and tireless efforts in organizing the urgent evacuation of the Afghanistan women’s cricket team to safety in Australia. At the forefront of this endeavour is Mel Jones, whose dedication and leadership inspired hope amidst adversity.
Melanie Jones is an England-born, who plied her trade as a cricketer representing Australia as a batter at the international level. She is a well-known personality in the cricket fraternity right from her playing days. She became a cricket agent after retiring from international cricket, before joining the cricket commentary team at Fox Sports, which also included the first-ever production of a women’s cricket magazine show. She also did radio stints with the BBC, SEN, ABC, and her own WBBL Podcast, called the Pitch Perfect.
When the Afghanistan women’s cricket team faced imminent danger in their homeland, Mel Jones, Dr Catherine Ordway, and Emma Staples sprang into action. They worked tirelessly to facilitate the team’s evacuation to Melbourne and Canberra, a move that not only saved lives but also offered a chance for a new beginning. The trio’s efforts were more than just an act of kindness; they embodied the spirit of cricket, which transcends borders and ideologies to unite people through a shared passion.
In January of this year, three and a half years after the initial evacuation, a new chapter unfolded as the Afghanistan Women’s XI stepped onto the pitch at the Junction Oval in Melbourne to play their first match in their adopted home. This moment marked not just a triumph of cricket but a testament to the resilience and courage of the women involved.
Beyond the evacuation, Mel, Catherine, and Emma have continued their support through the establishment of Pitch Our Future. This innovative program aims to empower the players with safe training facilities, academic opportunities, and pathways to continue their cricketing journeys. By providing more than just a place to live, they have given the team a platform to thrive and grow, embodying the true essence of cricket as a force for positive change.
Recently, Mel Jones, Dr Catherine Ordway, and Emma Staples were celebrated at Lord’s, as they received the MCC Spirit of Cricket Award for their remarkable contributions. Mel, receiving this honour on behalf of the trio, noted. “This is beyond special. Receiving the Spirit of Cricket Award is humbling, and it is reflective of a large body of tireless work for a situation that is more than just cricket. In amongst feelings of sadness, frustration, and anger around the Afghanistan women’s team’s plight, there was also so much hope, inspiration, pride, and celebration.”
Mel’s words capture the emotional depth of their journey and the broader impact on the cricket community. Their work is not just about cricket; it represents the spirit of human kindness and solidarity that cricket inspires.
Mel’s reflections on their journey highlight the complexity of the emotions involved. From sorrow and frustration to hope and pride, the story of these women is a powerful reminder of what cricket can achieve beyond the field. As Mel expressed gratitude to the global cricket community for their support, she also underscored the team’s own resilience.
“To the countless people within cricket who helped, both in Australia and across the world, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. To the players themselves, your spirit is an inspiration, and although nothing can replace what you have lost, hopefully, your story will serve as an example to cricket to never leave behind the people who play and love this wonderful game.”
As Mel Jones, Dr Catherine Ordway, and Emma Staples are celebrated for their contributions, the MCC Spirit of Cricket Award serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their story shows that cricket is more than a game; it’s a bond that unites people across cultural boundaries, fostering a sense of community and purpose.
In an era where sports can often be defined by triumphs and victories, Mel Jones and her fellow awardees remind us of the deeper meaning behind the game. They have demonstrated that cricket can be a force for change, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope and always a chance for a brighter future. As the cricket world continues to evolve, the legacy of Mel Jones and her colleagues will stand as a shining example of courage, compassion, and the unwavering power of cricket to transform lives.
(Quotes sourced from MCC Lords Press Release)
Loves all things female cricket